WNBA Season Delayed Due To Coronavirus, Virtual Draft Will Go On

The WNBA has postponed the start of its season because of the coronavirus pandemic, with no indication when play would start. In a statement, commissioner Cathy Engelbertsaid the WNBA is engaging in scenario-planning and considering "innovative formats" for when the season is able to resume. Like the National Basketball Association, the women's league figures to explore experimental ideas and pragmatic solutions - including the possibility of playing behind closed doors - as it looks to salvage its season.

The league is scheduled to hold its draft April 17, although it will be held in a virtual format with players and team and league personnel participating remotely. It was announced last week that the draft would move to a virtual presentation.

Engelbert stated the league's draft will proceed as scheduled on April 17 (7 p.m. ET, ESPN).